System and method for communicating power system information through a radio frequency device

ABSTRACT

A system for communicating information between a detection device and a wireless device is provided. The system generally includes a detection device adapted to monitor a condition related to a power system. A radio interface unit is in communication with the detection device via a communication member. A wireless device is further provided which is in radio communication with the radio interface unit such that the detection device communicates information to the wireless device through a radio interface unit. The system&#39;s components are further adapted to endure harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to water).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S.Provisional Application entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATINGPOWER SYSTEM INFORMATION THROUGH A RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICE,” filed on May19, 2006, having Ser. No. 60/801,757, naming Edmund O. Schweitzer, III,Mark J. Bosold, Douglas A. Park, Laurence Virgil Feight, and Adam ThomasBelote, as inventors, the complete disclosure thereof being incorporatedby reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a system and method forcommunicating power system information, and more particularly to asystem and method for communicating power system information through aradio frequency device.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Power transmission and distribution systems may include power systemprotection, monitoring, and control devices such as sensors, protectiverelays, faulted circuit indicators, and the like. Throughout, the term“power system device” will include any power system protection,monitoring, or control device. Detection devices are used in the powersystem industry to monitor certain areas and conditions in the powersystem. Some examples of detection devices include: faulted circuitindicators (FCIs); water, high voltage electric field, specific gravity,light, and sound sensors; gas sensors such as CO, CO2, SOx, NOx,Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, VOCs,Combustibles, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germane,Hydrogen, Hydrogen Chloride, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Fluoride,Hydrogen Selenide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene,Phosphine, Silane, and the like; pressure sensors for sensing, forexample, pressure in a gas line, water line, waste line, oil line, andthe like; temperature sensors; electromagnetic radiation sensors;radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate matter sensors; liquidphase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br−, Ca2+, Cl−, CN−, Cu2+, F−, I−,K+, Na+, NH4+, NO3−, Pb2+, S−(AG+), conductivity sensors, and the like;radio wave sensors; electrical sensors such as under voltage sensors,over voltage sensors, under current sensors, over current sensors,frequency sensors and the like; power factor alarms; demand overloadindicators; sensors that detect the presence of primary system voltage;sensors that determine if a sealed subsurface fuse has operated bysensing voltage on each side of fuse element with loss of load current;sensors that sense the open or closed position of a subsurface switch;voltage sensors which monitors status of lead-acid batteries used to runcontroller or motor operators for subsurface switches; power qualitysensors which detect primary voltage swells and sags along thedistribution system, and other sensors that detect power quality issuesand send an alarm status.

Faulted circuit indicators (FCIs) play a vital role in detecting andindicating faults and locations of faulted conductors to decrease theduration of power outages and improve the reliability of power systemsthroughout the world. Electrical utilities depend on faulted circuitindicators to help their employees quickly locate faulted conductors.Most conventional faulted circuit indicators utilize a mechanical targetor a light emitting diode (LED) to provide a visual indication of afaulted conductor. By visually scanning faulted circuit indicatorslocated at a site, an electrical utility crew can quickly locate afault. Industry statistics indicate that faulted circuit indicatorsreduce fault location time by 50%-60% versus the use of manualtechniques, such as the “refuse and sectionalize” method. Nonetheless,electrical utilities still spend substantial amounts of time and moneydetermining the locations of faults on their networks.

A recent advancement is the use of Radio Frequency (“RF”) technologywithin fault circuit indication systems. In one prior art system, eachfaulted circuit indicator communicates with a radio interface unit whichcommunicates the occurrence of a fault to an external receiver. Theradio interface unit is often located in proximity to an FCI within anunderground vault, which is susceptible to external elements. Forexample, vaults may often be filled with water thereby exposing theradio interface unit located therein to also be exposed to such. Inanother example, for overhead FCI systems, radio interface units arealso exposed to the external elements as they are situated in proximityto the overhead FCI device.

As such, it is an object of the present invention to provide a systemfor communicating power system information through a radio frequencydevice which may endure harsh external elements.

Prior art fault circuit indication systems have further been found to beinsufficient in their reporting of data. In one prior art system, awireless device is used to monitor radio signals from RF equippedfaulted circuit indicators that are connected to a radio interface unit.Using a wireless device, a utility crew can locate a fault and determinewhen the fault has been properly cleared by monitoring the display ofthe wireless device. However, conventional wireless devices provide noindication as to whether a particular faulted circuit indicator isactually connected to the radio interface unit. In addition, prior artdevices do not display the status of a plurality of or multiple groupsof faulted circuit indicators simultaneously. Prior art systems also donot provide the capability to view detection devices or sensors forcommunicating other conditions related to the power system.

Accordingly, one object of this invention is to provide a user interfacefor a wireless device that simultaneously displays the status ofmultiple groups of monitored faulted circuit indicators. Another objectof this invention is to provide an indication on a wireless device ofwhether a faulted circuit indicator is connected to a remote monitoringdevice, such as a radio interface unit. Yet another object of thepresent invention is to provide data on a wireless device for otherconditions related to the power system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system for communicating information between a detection device and awireless device is provided which is adapted to endure harsh conditions(e.g., prolonged exposure to water). The system generally includes adetection device adapted to monitor a condition related to a powersystem. A radio interface unit is in communication with the detectiondevice via a communication member. A wireless device is further providedwhich is in radio communication with the radio interface unit such thatthe detection device communicates information to the wireless devicethrough a radio interface unit.

In an embodiment, the detection device is a power system device (e.g., afaulted circuit indicator). In another embodiment, either thecommunication member or the radio interface unit is substantiallyself-contained. In yet another embodiment, the communication member maybe adapted to communicate power system information to the radiointerface unit without either a mechanical or electrical connectiontherebetween.

In yet another embodiment, the detection device includes one selectedfrom the list consisting of devices for detecting. CO, CO₂, SO_(x),NO_(x), Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, volatileorganic compounds, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde,Germane, Hydrogen, Hydrogen Chloride, Hydrogen Cyanide, HydrogenFluoride, Hydrogen Selenide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane,Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, pressure, temperature, electromagneticradiation, atomic radiation, smoke, particulate matter, pH, turbidity,Br⁻, Ca²⁺, Cl⁻, CN⁻, Cu²⁺, F⁻, I⁻, K⁺, Na⁺, NH⁴⁺, NO³⁻, Pb²⁺, S⁻(AG⁺),conductivity, over voltage, under voltage, over current, under current,frequency, water, high voltage electric field, specific gravity, light,and sound.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will beparticularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and themanner in which it can be made and used, can be better understood byreferring to the following description taken in connection with theaccompanying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like referencenumerals refer to like parts throughout the several views and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a system view of a faulted circuit indicatormonitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 2A illustrates a wireless device communicating with eight radiointerface units, each of which is connected to four groups of faultedcircuit indicators in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2B illustrates the underground vault 200 e of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 illustrates a circuit diagram of the radio interface unit of FIG.1 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an example of the housing of a radiointerface unit in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an embodiment ofthe present invention system showing the engagement of the communicationmember and interface.

FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate a cross-sectional view of another embodimentof the present invention system showing the engagement of thecommunication member and interface.

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present inventionsystem illustrating the interaction between the communication member andthe interface.

FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing magnetic field interference with thecommunication member and the interface.

FIG. 8 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present inventionsystem showing the compensation for magnetic field interferenceimplementing a differential inductor coil configuration.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the housing of a radio interface unitin accordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an embodiment ofthe present invention system showing the engagement of the communicationmember and interface implementing a differential inductor coilconfiguration.

FIGS. 10C and 10D illustrate a cross-sectional view of anotherembodiment of the present invention system showing the engagement of thecommunication member and interface implementing a differential inductorcoil configuration.

FIG. 11 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present inventionsystem illustrating the interaction between the communication member andthe interface implementing a parallel inductor coil configuration.

FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present inventionsystem illustrating the interaction between the communication member andthe interface implementing a serial inductor coil configuration.

FIG. 13 is a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the present inventionsystem illustrating the interaction between the communication member andthe interface implementing a circuit for preventing false latching fromringing currents.

FIGS. 14A-14C are graphical representations depicting the progression ofa ringing pulse exiting the detection circuit of FIG. 12 and thesuppression of false latching caused by ringing.

FIG. 15 illustrates a dial having a plurality of magnets in a selectarrangement, wherein each arrangement corresponds to a selectidentification setting.

FIGS. 16A-16D are circuit diagrams illustrating various embodiments ofsystems for identifying a power system device according to variousaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 17A illustrates the user interface of a wireless device of FIGS. 2Aand 2B used to scan a number of groups of faulted circuit indicatorsconnected to separate radio interface units for their status.

FIG. 17B illustrates the same wireless device user interface of FIG. 17Aafter a scan operation has been completed.

FIG. 17C illustrates the same wireless device user interface FIG. 17Awhere a number of faulted circuit indicators attached to the selectedradio interface unit are asserting a fault condition.

FIG. 17D illustrates the same wireless device user interface FIG. 17Awhere, in addition to the selected radio interface unit, two other radiointerface units are coupled to one or more faulted circuit indicatorsasserting a fault condition.

FIG. 17E illustrates a schematic for a circuit diagram for a wirelessdevice according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates the data format of peek and poke messages used toread and modify memory locations within a radio frequency faultedcircuit indicator monitor in accordance with an aspect of the presentinvention.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing how the present invention may be used toview or modify memory locations within a selected power system device inaccordance with an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 20A illustrates a request command timing diagram for a wirelessdevice according to an embodiment, wherein request commands aretransmitted in alternating frequencies over a select interval of time ata select request time or byte length.

FIG. 20B illustrates a request command timing diagram for a wirelessdevice according to an embodiment, wherein request commands aretransmitted in alternating frequencies over a select interval of time ata select request time or byte length.

FIG. 21 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to anembodiment, which depicts periodic polling cycles of a radio interfaceunit with listening windows of polling packets in alternatingfrequencies.

FIG. 22 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to anembodiment wherein a request command is detected by a polling pulse at acorresponding frequency.

FIG. 23 is a timing diagram for a radio interface unit according to anembodiment wherein the radio interface unit successfully detects acommand request message by a polling pulse at the beginning of thelistening window as shown in FIG. 22 at a corresponding frequency.

FIG. 24 illustrates a request command message and a response message ina response action according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 illustrates a power conserving communication protocol modechange between a wireless device and a radio interface unit according toan aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 26 depicts an embodiment of a power conserving communicationprotocol algorithm in a radio interface unit according to an embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 27 illustrates a cutout side view of an embodiment of an interfacebetween an optical communication device and an electronic device inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 28 illustrates a perspective view of a radio interface unit inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an interfacebetween an optical communication device and the radio interface unit ofFIG. 27 in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of a radio interface unit inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 31 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of an interfacebetween an optical communication device and the radio interface unit ofFIG. 30 in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view of an optical communicationdevice in accordance with one aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 illustrates a faulted circuit indicator monitoring system inaccordance with an aspect of the present invention. A number of overheadfaulted circuit indicators 207 each contain a two-way radio thatcommunicates the occurrence of a fault via a short range antenna 203 toa local site 110 having an intelligent module 106 installed within radiorange of the faulted circuit indicators 207. The intelligent module thenuses the existing wired telephone network (not shown) to communicate thefault occurrence to a remote site 112. Alternatively, the intelligentmodule may include a radio interface unit associated therewith forcommunication with an antenna 114 b to communicate the fault occurrenceto a remote site 112 having another long range RF antenna 114 a. Theremote site 112 includes a remote intelligent module 107, which may beconnected to another site (not shown) via a wired connection 116. When afault is detected by a faulted circuit indicator, the occurrence isrelayed in the manner described above to the remote site 112, triggeringthe dispatch of a team to the fault site. The user then uses a wirelessdevice 102 (e.g., a wireless handheld device). In another embodiment,the wireless device may be located in a vehicle 104 to determine whichconductor 205 is faulted.

Note that the conductors could also be located in an underground vault200, which may be accessible through a manhole 118. Faulted circuitindicators 206 attached to the underground conductors 210 are wired to aradio interface unit 400 with a short range antenna 202 to communicatewith the wireless device 102 or wireless device installed in a vehicle104. In one embodiment, the short range antenna 202 may be part of orseparate from the radio interface unit.

Referring to the drawings and to FIGS. 2A and 2B in particular, awireless device 102 communicates 904 with eight installations of faultedcircuit indicators 200 a-200 h. As illustrated, each installation offaulted circuit indicators consists of a radio interface unit, and fourseparate groups (“ways”) of faulted circuit indicators, wherein eachgroup has three faulted circuit indicators, one for each phase. Forexample, the installation shown at 200 e, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2Bincludes four separate groups 206 a-d of faulted circuit indicatorsconnected to a radio interface unit 400 e through cables 220 e with aseparate short range antenna 202 econnected through cable 208 e. Thisradio interface unit 400 e may include a particular setting such that itmay be differentiated from the other radio interface units. For example,this identification setting may be in the form of a designation setting(e.g., serial number), whereupon each particular radio interface unithas a particular designation (e.g., a particular serial number). Inanother embodiment, the identification setting may be in the form of anaddress setting (e.g., a media access control (MAC) address). In yetanother embodiment, in order to ensure proper differentiation among aplurality of units, each radio interface unit may include both adesignation setting and an address setting. For example, both the radiointerface unit 400 b and radio interface unit 400 e may be associatedwith a particular address (e.g., address 5) in order to differentiatebetween these radio interface units 400 b and 400 e, each radiointerface unit 400 b and 400 e is given a particular designation setting(e,g., particular serial numbers). In this way, radio interface unitsmay be differentiated.

Each faulted circuit indicator within these separate groups 206 a-d maybe used to monitor the various phases (e.g., commonly referred to as theA, B, C phases) associated therewith. For example, each of the faultedcircuit indicators associated with way 206 a may be used to monitor thethree phases associated therewith. Through this system, the installation200 e of faulted circuit indicators 206 a, 206 b, 206 c, 206 d maycommunicate with wireless device 102.

Additionally, the wireless device 102 may alternatively be adapted tocommunicate with radio interface units associated with overhead faultcircuit indicators as illustrated in FIG. 1. In yet another embodiment,the wireless device may be in the form of a personal digital assistant(PDA) with a wireless interface, a laptop computer or a handheldcomputer with a wireless interface, etc. and may optionally be mountedin a service vehicle.

Referring back to FIG. 1, various components of the faulted circuitindicator monitoring system may be located in an underground vault 200and only accessible through a manhole 118. As discussed above, theunderground vault 200 is often susceptible to external elements and evenflooding. Accordingly, its contents are also susceptible to externalelements such as water. Likewise, overhead FCI systems also includeelectronic devices which are exposed to external elements. Accordingly,it is also desirable that any connections between the electronic devicesbe wireless and/or waterproof. Moreover, it is also desirable that thecommunication members (e.g., probes or other wireless connection means)and corresponding detection devices be substantially self-contained.

For example, it is desirable that any connection between each FCI 206and the radio interface unit 400 of the previous figures be wireless andwaterproof. Also, it is desirable that both the communication members(not shown) from the FCI 206 and the radio interface unit 400 each besubstantially self-contained.

Referring to FIG. 4, the radio interface unit 400 a includes a housing402 a which is substantially self-contained. Contained within thehousing 402 a are electronic components (not shown). The electroniccomponents contained within the housing 402 a may further beencapsulated using an encapsulate material such as potting material.Encapsulate material provides a physical barrier around the electroniccomponents. This barrier is malleable, providing increased resistance toshock and vibration. In addition, if the material is properly cured, thebarrier will be water-tight.

One such encapsulate material is referred to as potting material.Potting material may include epoxy based materials, urethane basedmaterials, silicone based materials, acrylic based materials, polyesterbased materials, and others. Urethane and silicone based materials arethe types used most often in the electronics industry. Each particulartype of potting material has its own strengths and weaknesses.

With the exception of the opening for antenna 208 a, there are generallyno outlets or openings in the housing 402 a. Accordingly, the housing402 a is substantially self-contained (sealed from the elements). Forexample, address switch 414 a and power switch 406 a are separate andapart from the housing 402 a in that they do not require any mechanicalor electrical connection to any electronic component contained withinthe housing 402 a. The housing 402 a further defines cavities (e.g., at304 a) for receiving communication members which may be in the form ofinductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 a) in a manner in which they do notexpose the electronic components contained within the housing 402 a tothe external environment. Housing 402 a may further include a securingmember such as a connector socket 408 a in order to secure the inductorcoil probe 508 a within the cavity 304 a. Although inductor coil probesare illustrated and described herein, it is intended that anycommunication member which includes an inductor and produces a magneticfield or communicates information via a magnetic field may be used inplace thereof.

The inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 a) which interface the cavities(e.g., at 304 a) are coupled to a detection device such as an FCI asdescribed with regards to FIG. 1. The inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508a) are also substantially self-contained. The inductor coil probes(e.g., at 508 a) wirelessly communicate with the radio interface unit400 a via cavities (e.g., 304 a) in the manner described below.

One particular advantage to having inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 a)which interface the cavities (e.g., at 304 a) without a wired orelectrical connection, is that the system is closer to beingintrinsically safe. Because so-called waterproof connections thatrequire electrical and mechanical connection between the two devicesfail after time, the electrical connection may become exposed, and posea safety risk.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate one embodiment of the hardware arrangementfor the circuitry described with respect to FIG. 3 having an interfacebetween an inductor coil probe 508 b and a radio interface device 400 b.Contained within the housing 402 b are various electronic components ofthe radio interface unit 400 b. The electronic components are furtherencapsulated by an encapsulate material 514 b such as a pottingmaterial. The housing 402 b further defines a plurality of cavities(e.g., at 304 b) for receiving inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 b) ina manner in which they do not expose the electronic components containedwithin the housing 402 b to the external environment. Further providedare a printed circuit board 520 b which includes a plurality of magneticfield sensors such as hall-effect sensors (e.g., at 320 b) and a printedcircuit board 502 b which includes a plurality of inductors (erg., at420 b) implemented thereon. In this embodiment, the printed circuitboards 520 b and 502 b are separate and distinct. FIGS. 5C and 5D aresimilar to FIGS. 5A and 5B with the exception that only one circuitboard 520 c is implemented and the inductors are in the form of coiledinductors 420 c in the embodiments of FIGS. 5C and 5D.

During operation of each of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D,the interface between the inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 b, c) andthe radio interface unit 400 b, c is as follows. The inductor coilprobes (e.g., at 508 b, c) may be inserted into the cavities (e.g., at304 b, c). For example, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 5D, a magnet 902 b, cis situated at the end of the inductor coil probe 508 b, c. Acorresponding magnetic field sensor (e.g., a hall-effect sensor) 302 b,c situated on printed circuit board 502 b, 520 c detects the presence ofa magnetic field from magnet 902 b, c upon insertion of the inductorcoil probe 508 b, c into the cavity 304 b, c. The magnetic field sensor302 b, c produces a signal to the microprocessor, thereby signaling thepresence of an inductor coil probe 508 b, c. A spacer 620 b, c isfurther provided in order to prevent the magnet 902 b, c from affectingthe inductor coil 604 b, c contained within the inductor coil probe 508b, c. Although a hall-effect sensor is described herein, other suitablemagnetic field sensors may also be implemented such as a Reed switch andthe like.

The inductor coil probes 508 b, c which interface with the cavities 304b, c are coupled to a detection device such as an FCI as described inFIG. 1. The inductor coil probe 508 b, c includes an inductor coil 604b, c and is also substantially self-contained. The inductor coil probes508 b, c wirelessly communicate with the radio interface unit 400 b, cvia cavities 304 b, c by magnetic field or electromagnetic fieldinduction (also referred to as “magnetic field induction”) in the mannerdescribed below.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, during operation, a trip current signal I_(T)is sent from a detection device, such as an FCI 206, when a conductor(e.g., 210 of FIG. 1) related thereto exceeds a select current threshold(e.g., upon an occurrence of a ground fault). The trip current signalI_(T) induces a magnetic field 540 at the inductor coil L1 of theinductor coil probe 508 d. The magnetic field 540 from the trip currentI_(T) induces a current I₁ in inductor coil 420 d of the radio interfaceunit. This induced current further induces a voltage V₁ across load 538d. Information regarding the increased voltage V₁ across load 538 d maybe transmitted from the radio interface unit to a wireless handheld unitto signal a trip signal by an FCI.

Alternatively, a reset current signal I_(R) may be sent from a detectiondevice such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (e.g., 210 ofFIG. 1) is restored from a previously tripped condition. In order todistinguish between the reset current signal I_(R) and the trip currentsignal I_(T), these signals may be sent or established in oppositedirections. The reset current signal I_(R) induces a magnetic field 540at the inductor coil L1 of the inductor coil probe 508 d. The magneticfield 540 from the reset current I_(R) induces a current I₁ in inductorcoil 420 d of the radio interface unit, This induced current furtherinduces a voltage V₁ across load 538 d. Information regarding thedecreased voltage V₁ (as opposed to an increased voltage V₁ for a tripsignal) across load 538 d may be transmitted from the radio interfaceunit to the wireless handheld unit to signal a reset signal by an FCI.

Nevertheless, communication members having a single probe as discussedin the previous figures are often susceptible to magnetic orelectromagnetic field interference from external sources. For example,as illustrated in FIG. 7, an interfering magnetic field 532 may beproduced by an adjacent power line 534 carrying high current 530. Theinterfering magnetic field 532 may induce a current in inductor coil 420e of the radio interface unit, This induced current further induces avoltage V₁ across load 538 e, and thereby produces a false trip or resetsignal.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the interfering magnetic field 532 may becancelled using a differential inductor coil configuration. In thisarrangement, the communication member includes two inductor coils 420 fand 420 g which are connected in opposite directions. The interferingmagnetic field 532 induces a current I₁ in inductor coil 420 f and acurrent I₂ in inductor coil 420 g of the radio interface unit. Thecurrents I₁ and I₂ are induced in opposite directions and each induce avoltage V₁ in opposite polarity to each other across load 538 f.Accordingly, this arrangement provides for a net induced voltage of 0,thereby compensating for interference from a magnetic field and therebynegating false signals.

Referring to FIG. 9, a radio interface unit 400 h is provided foraccommodating a differential inductor coil probe for cancellinginterfering magnetic fields. The substantially self-containedconstruction of the housing 400 h may be generally similar to thehousing 402 h described with respect to FIG, 4. Accordingly, the housing402 h further defines cavities (e.g., at 304 h) for receivingdifferential inductor coil probes (e.g., at 609) having dual prongs in amanner in which they do not expose the electronic components containedwithin the housing 402 h to the external environment.

In another embodiment, the radio interface unit 400 a may be providedfor accommodating a differential inductor coil for cancellinginterfering magnetic fields. This embodiment is similar to thatdescribed above in conjunction with FIG. 9, except that each socket 408a includes only a single cavity 304 a to accept the single inductor coilprobe 508 a. Instead of having a differential inductor coil probe foreach probe 508 a, there is a single differential inductor coil forcancelling interfering magnetic fields.

The differential inductor coil probes (e.g., at 609) which interface thecavities (e.g., at 304 h) are coupled to a detection device such as anFCI as described with regards to FIG. 1. The differential inductor coilprobe 609 is also substantially self-contained. The differentialinductor coil probes (e.g., at 609) wirelessly communicate with theradio interface unit 400 h via cavities (e.g., 304 h) in the mannerdescribed below.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate one embodiment of the hardware arrangementfor the circuitry described with respect to FIG. 8 having an interfacebetween the differential inductor coil probe and the cavity. Containedwithin the housing 402 i are various electronic components of the radiointerface unit 400 i. The electronic components are further encapsulatedby an encapsulate material 514 i such as a potting material. The housing402 i further defines a plurality of cavities (e.g., at 304 i) forreceiving differential inductor coil probes (e.g., at 609 i) in a mannerin which they do not expose the electronic components contained withinthe housing 402 i to the external environment. Further provided is aprinted circuit board 502 i which includes a plurality of magnetic fieldsensors such as hall-effect sensors (e.g., at 302 i) and a plurality ofinductors (e.g., at 420 i) implemented thereon. FIGS. 10C and 10D aresimilar to FIGS. 10A and 10B with the exception that the inductors 506 kof FIGS. 10C and 10D are in the form of coiled inductors.

During operation of each to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 10A-D,the interface between the differential inductor coil probes 609 i, k andthe radio interface unit 400 i, k is as follows. The differentialinductor coil probes 609 i, k may be inserted into the cavities 304 i,k. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9B and 9D, a magnet 902 i, k issituated between the prongs of differential inductor coil probe 609 i,k. A corresponding magnetic field sensor (e.g., hall-effect sensor 302i, k) situated on printed circuit board 502 i, k detects the presence ofa magnetic field from magnet 902 i, k upon insertion of the differentialinductor coil probe 609 i, k into the cavity 304 i, k. The hall-effectsensor 302 i, k produces a signal to the microprocessor, therebysignaling the presence of a differential inductor coil probe 609 i, k.Although a hall-effect sensor is described herein, other suitableelements may be implemented (e.g., a Reed switch).

The differential inductor coil probes 609 i, k which interface thecavities 304 i, k are coupled to a detection device such as an FCI asdescribed with regards to FIG. 1. The differential inductor coil probe609 i, k includes an inductor coil 604 i, k in each prong and is alsosubstantially self-contained. The differential inductor coil probes 609i, k wirelessly communicate with the radio interface unit 400 i, k viacavities (e.g., 304 i, k) by magnetic field induction in the mannerdescribed below.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment which implements the differentialcoil configuration of FIG. 8. In this arrangement, the differentialinductor coil probe 609 a is in a parallel inductor coil configuration.During operation, two inductor coils 420 a and 420 b are connected inparallel in opposite directions. The interfering magnetic field (notshown) induces a current I₁ in inductor coil 420 a and a current I₂ ininductor coil 420 b of the radio interface unit. The currents I₁ and I₂are induced in opposite directions and each induce a voltage V₁ inopposite polarity to each other across load 538, thereby canceling therespective voltages. Accordingly, this arrangement provides for a netinduced voltage of 0, thereby compensating for interference from amagnetic field and negating false signals.

The arrangement of FIG. 11, in effect, forms a differential pulsetransformer configuration 558 a, whereupon high-energy, short-lastingpulses are transmitted with low distortions. During operation, a tripcurrent signal I_(T) is sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206when a conductor (e.g., 210 of FIG. 1) related thereto exceeds a selectcurrent threshold (e.g., upon an occurrence of a ground fault) via cable220 into differential inductor coil probe 609 a with series loadresistors R. The inductor coils L1 and L2 are connected in parallel togenerate magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b in opposite directions. Thetrip current signal I_(T) induces magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b inopposite directions. The magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b from the tripcurrent I_(T) induces currents I₁ and I₂ in inductor coils 420 a and 420b of the radio interface unit. The induced currents I₁ and I₂ furtherinduce a differential voltage ΔV across load 538. Information regardinga positive differential voltage ΔV across load 538 may be transmittedfrom the radio interface unit to the wireless handheld unit to signal atrip signal by an FCI.

Alternatively, a reset current signal I_(R) may be sent from a detectiondevice such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (e.g.) 210 ofFIG. 1) is restored from a previously tripped condition. In order todistinguish between the reset current signal I_(R) and the trip currentsignal I_(T), these signals may be sent or established in oppositedirections. The reset current signal I_(R) induces magnetic fields 540 aand 540 b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540 a and 540 bfrom the reset current I_(R) induces currents I₁ and I₂ in inductorcoils 420 a and 420 b of the radio interface unit. The induced currentsI₁ and I₂ further induce a differential voltage ΔV across load 538.Information regarding a negative differential voltage ΔV across load 538may be transmitted from the radio interface unit to the wirelesshandheld unit to signal a reset signal by an FCI.

In yet another embodiment, FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment whichimplements the differential coil configuration of FIG. 8. In thisarrangement, the differential inductor coil probe 609 c is in a serialinductor coil configuration. During operation, two inductor coils 420 aand 420 b are connected in series in opposite directions. Theinterfering magnetic field (not shown) induces a current I₁ in inductorcoil 420 a and a current I₂ in inductor coil 420 b of the radiointerface unit. The currents I₁ and I₂ are induced in oppositedirections and each induce a voltage V₁ in opposite polarity to eachother across load 538, thereby canceling the respective voltages.Accordingly, this arrangement provides for a net induced voltage of 0,thereby compensating for interference from a magnetic field and negatingfalse signals.

The arrangement of FIG. 12, in effect, forms a differential pulsetransformer configuration 558 a, whereupon high-energy, short-lastingpulses are transmitted with low distortions. Because the inductor coilsL1 and L2 are connected in series, the design values thereof aregenerally lower than the parallel arrangement of FIG. 11 due to theadditive or period inductance. During operation, a trip current signalI_(T) is sent from a detection device such as an FCI 206 when aconductor (e.g., 210 of FIG. 1) related thereto exceeds a select currentthreshold (e.g., upon an occurrence of a ground fault) via cable 220into differential inductor coil probe 609 a with series damping ringingpulse resistors R. The inductor coils L1 and L2 are connected in seriesto generate magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b in opposite directions. Thetrip current signal I_(T) induces magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b inopposite directions. The magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b from the tripcurrent I_(T) induces currents I₁ and I₂ in inductor coils 420 a and 420b of the radio interface unit. The induced currents I₁ and I₂ furtherinduce a differential voltage ΔV across load 538. Information regardinga positive differential voltage ΔV across load 538 may be transmittedfrom the radio interface unit to the wireless handheld unit to signal atrip signal by an FCI.

Alternatively, a reset current signal I_(R) may be sent from a detectiondevice such as an FCI 206 after the current in a conductor (e.g., 210 ofFIG. 1) is restored from a previously tripped condition. In order todistinguish between the reset current signal I_(R) and the trip currentsignal I_(T), these signals may be sent or established in oppositedirections. The reset current signal I_(R) induces magnetic fields 540 aand 540 b in opposite directions. The magnetic fields 540 a and 540 bfrom the reset current I_(R) induces currents I₁ and I₂ in inductorcoils 420 a and 420 b of the radio interface unit. The induced currentsI₁ and I₂ further induce a differential voltage ΔV across load 538.Information regarding a negative differential voltage ΔV across load 538may be transmitted from the radio interface unit to the wirelesshandheld unit to signal a reset signal by an FCI.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment which implements the differentialcoil configuration of FIG. 8. In this arrangement, a trip current I_(T)or a reset current I_(R) signal from the differential inductor coilprobe 609 a generates equal and opposite magnetic fields 540 a and 540b. The magnetic fields 540 a and 540 b induce currents I₁ and I₂ in theradio interface unit. A detection circuit 559 a is further provided withsymmetrical network branches having inputs 580 a and 580 b coupled toinductor coils 420 a and 420 b. Symmetrical ends 582 a and 582 b arefurther coupled to a latching flip-flop G1/G2 and a microcontroller 310.Each symmetric network branch includes a series diode; an amplitudecontrol element such as a shunt diode or a shunt resistor, a low passfilter; and a charging circuit (or charge holding circuit). In anembodiment of the detection circuit 559 a, shunt diodes D1 and D3 arethe amplitude control elements for the incoming pulse, whereas the lowpass filter and charging circuit is formed by a network of resistors andcapacitor.

More specifically, the direction of the voltage/current peak from aninduced pulse is detected with four diodes (D1, D2, D3 and D4) at inputs580 a and 580 b, respectively. A positive pulse U3 FIG. 13Aii (at D3 andD4) is directed through resistor R4 into capacitor C2, storing thecharge. Resistor R5 or R2 allows capacitor discharging of positive pulseU3 in a controlled manner, preventing false latching from ringingcurrents from the FCI and probe circuits (e.g., L1, L2 and R). Anegative pulse U1 FIG. 13Ai is conducted through diode D1, with diode D2blocking any residual voltage from getting into capacitor C1 throughclamping in diode D1 and reverse bias rectification in diode D2. DiodeD1 clamps the negative pulse at about −0.5 V to −0.8 V, depending on thediode type.

The R4/C2 (and R1/C1) components create a low-pass filter, preventinghigh frequency spikes changing the logic state of the flip-flop gatesG1/G2 (NOR gate flip flops). The positive pulse U3 generates a current,through R4, which charges capacitor C2. Resistors R6 and R3 each preventlatch-up of respective CMOS gates G2 and G1, and allow chargingcapacitors C1 and C3 to reach a higher voltage above the internal CMOSgates clamping voltage. Charging and retaining charge is important inpreventing undesired flip-flop action due to ringing in the Trip/Resetpulses. In this arrangement, NOR gates G1 and G2 are further connectedin an R-S flip-flop configuration, with active-high inputs.

Pulse U4 FIG. 13Bii is applied to gate G2 input 587 of the flop-flop. Ifthe flip-flop outputs logic 0 on G1 at output 587, prior to the trippulse, the pulse changes the logic state of line 550 from logic 0 tologic 1. The status of the flip-flop is evaluated with a microprocessor310 at I/O interface 552. The microprocessor 310 such as a TexasInstruments MSP430 family is suitable for this application where astandard program can be written.

On a power-up, flip-flop G1/G2 sets a random output logic level on line550. Resistor R7, serial with the G1 output, allows for resetting of theflip-flop G1/G2 with the microprocessor 310. A program may further beprovided for driving the microprocessor 310, changing the I/O interface552 from input to output, and setting line input 550 with a logic 0. If,at the same time, the gate G1 outputs logic 1, the resistor R7 allowsvoltage at gate G2 input 587 to drop below the threshold level of logic0, causing flip-flop G1/G2 to change the G1 output to logic 0. Thiscircuit arrangement allows reusing the same line 550 to read logic datafrom flip-flop G1/G2 and resetting the flip-flop G1/G2, with a singlecopper trace line input 550 and a single reset resistor R7.

The flip-flop NOR gates G1/G2 may further create a CMOS memory location,thereby allowing for latching and storage of logic values for month andyears. CMOS inherently uses a relatively small supply current, therebyallowing for extension of the lifetime of a supply battery.

A ringing pulse from a trip pulse or a reset pulse can often cause falselatching. The arrangement of FIG. 13 provides for an embodiment whichsuppresses such false latching. FIGS. 14A-14C depict the progression ofa ringing pulse exiting the detection circuit of FIG. 13 and thesuppression of false latching caused by ringing.

The arrangement of FIG. 13 is designed to accept a trip/reset pulse froma various FCI sensors and differential inductor coil probes. Suchhardware diversification may result in a trip or reset pulse withmultiple ringing portions such as 560 b, 564 a and 566 b in inducedpulse U1, and 560 c, 564 c and 566 c in induced pulse U3 shown in FIGS.13Ai and 13Aii. In effect, induced pulses U1 and U3 generated bydifferential pulse transformer 558 a at both ends of the coil pair(e.g., inductor coils 420 a and 420 b) will be of similar amplitude andreversed polarity in the absence of shunt diodes D1 and D3 and seriesdiodes D2 and D4 (shown as dotted lines).

Shunt diodes D1 and D3 may be used to clamp a negative pulse, whereasseries diodes D2 and D4 may be used to rectify and pass a positive pulsein forward bias. Diode pairs D1 and D2 clamp and rectify negative andpositive pulse portions 560 a, 564 a and 566 a in a reversed polarityinduced pulse U1. Diode pairs D3 and D4 rectify and clamp positive andnegative pulse portions 560 c, 564 b and 566 c, respectively, in apositive polarity induced pulse U3.

FIG. 14Bi depicts the voltage of pulse U2 across capacitor C1, inducedby a ringing pulse U1. An erred latching of the flip-flop G1/G2 mayresult if the voltage of pulse U2 reaches above the logic 1 threshold570. The desired positive polarity induced pulse U3 depicted in FIG.14Aii with a higher amplitude generates filtered pulse U4 acrosscapacitor C2 as shown in FIG. 14Bii, that in turn generates logic 1 forgate G2. The charge of pulse U4 across capacitor C2 holds longer thanthe later charging of ringing pulse U2 across C1 as shown in FIG. 14Bi.

FIG. 14 c superimposes pulses U2 and U4 presented to the flip-flop G1/G2to illustrate the concept that an extended logic 1 level of pulse U4presented to gate G2 outlasts a false logic 1 caused by ringing pulse U2presented to gate G1, thus preserving a proper logic latch by theflip-flop G1/G2. The time constant of the C2/R5/R6 (or C1/R2/R3) allowsfor rejection of most false ringing voltage of pulse U2 by a voltagemargin 572, and a time margin 574 depending on the amplitude differencesof pulses U4 and U2 set at the logic level in G1/G2. The diode pair andRC network in differential arrangement allows for error-free detectionof the desired induced pulse U4 under the presence of a “ringing” signalU2 on the opposite side of the differential pulse transformer 558. Thesame principle of operation applies if the induced pulses U1 and U3 areof reverse polarity, except that the pulses in FIGS. 14 a to 14 c willbe interposed between U1 and U3, and between U2 and U4. The teachingsdescribed in relation to FIGS. 13 and 14 may further be implemented fora single probe differential coil configuration without deviating fromthe spirit of the present invention.

Further according to the present invention, it is envisioned that anytype of detection device that is capable of sending a positive and anegative signal may be used in conjunction with or in place of the radiointerface unit. Some examples of detection devices (other than an FCI)that may be used include: water, high voltage electric field, specificgravity, light, and sound, gas sensors such as CO, CO2, SOx, NOx,Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide, VOCS,Combustibles, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine, Formaldehyde, Germane,Hydrogen, Hydrogen Chloride, Hydrogen Cyanide, Hydrogen Fluoride,Hydrogen Selenide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone, Methane, Phosgene,Phosphine, Silane, and the like; pressure sensors for sensing, forexample, pressure in a gas line, water line, waste line, oil line, andthe like; temperature sensors; electromagnetic radiation sensors;radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate matter sensors; liquidphase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br−, Ca2+, Cl−, CN−, Cu2+, F−, I−,K+, Na+, NH4+, NO3−, Pb2+, S−(AG+), conductivity sensors, and the like;radio wave sensors; electrical sensors such as under voltage sensors,over voltage sensors, under current sensors, over current sensors,frequency sensors and the like; power factor alarms; demand overloadindicators; sensors that detect the presence of primary system voltage;sensors that determine if a sealed subsurface fuse has operated bysensing voltage on each side of fuse element with loss of load current;sensors that sense the open or closed position of a subsurface switch;voltage sensors which monitors status of lead-acid batteries used to runcontroller or motor operators for subsurface switches; power qualitysensors which detect primary voltage swells and sags along thedistribution system, and other sensors that detect power quality issuesand send an alarm status.

The detection device communicates with the radio interface unit 400according to any of the embodiments herein described. Thus, themonitoring system of the present invention may be used to monitor statesor conditions that are detected with any of the detection devices (e.g.,FCIs or other sensors) mentioned above.

It is a further aspect of this invention that the faulted circuitindicator monitoring system differentiate between the different types ofdetection devices that may be in communication with the radio interfaceunit 400. The differentiation may be performed between two differenttypes of detection devices using the permanent magnet (e.g., at 902 b,902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) of the inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 a, 508b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) and the magnetic field sensor (e.g., 302b, 302 c, 302 i, or 302 k). The polarity of the permanent magnet (e.g.,at 902 b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) for a particular type of detectiondevice may be a polar opposite from the permanent magnet (e.g., at 902b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) for another particular type of detectiondevice. The radio interface unit 400 may then be configured to transmitthe status of only one particular type of detection device wheninterrogated by a specific wireless device 102 (or when the wirelessdevice 102 interrogates using a specific algorithm), and transmit thestatus of another particular type of detection device when interrogatedby another specific wireless device 102 (or when the wireless device 102interrogates using another algorithm).

For example, the radio interface unit 400 may be mounted in a vault 200containing electrical conductors for an electrical power utility, andaccess to water lines for a water utility. Faulted circuit indicatorsmay be used to monitor faulted circuits on the electrical conductors,and may be in communication with the radio interface unit 400 using thevarious probe systems described herein. However, the inductor coilprobes (e.g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) for thefaulted circuit indicators would be configured such that the permanentmagnets (e.g., at 902 b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) have a common pole(north) facing the magnetic field sensor (e.g., 302 b, 302 c, 302 i, or302 k). If the radio interface unit 400 has twelve connector sockets(e.g., 408 a, 408 h), less then all of them may be used used by thefaulted circuit indicators. The magnetic field sensors (e.g., 302 b, 302c, 302 i, or 302 k) would sense that all of these inductor coil probes(e.g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) have permanentmagnets (e.g., at 902 b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) with a common polarity.

The radio interface unit 400 may also be in communication with inductorcoil probes (e g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) fromdetection devices for the water utility. For example, the water utilitymay want to monitor whether the pressure in the water lines exceeds athreshold. The water utility could install such detection devices on thewater lines, and have these water pressure detection devices communicatewith inductor coil probes (e.g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or609 k) in communication with the remaining connector sockets (e.g., 408a, 408 h) of the radio interface unit 400. The inductor coil probes(e.g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) from the waterutility would include permanent magnets (e.g., at 902 b, 902 c, 902 i,or 902 k) having a common pole (south) facing the magnetic field sensor(e.g., 302 b, 302 c, 302 i, or 302 k). The pole of the permanent magnets(e g., at 902 b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) facing the inductor coil probes(e.g., at 508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) of the waterutility would be opposite the pole of the permanent magnets (e.g., at902 b, 902 c, 902 i, or 902 k) facing the inductor coil probes (egg., at508 a, 508 b, 508 c, 609, 609 i, or 609 k) of the electric utility. Inthis way, the radio interface unit 400 could differentiate betweendetection devices of different utilities, and transmit informationrelating only to the utility that interrogates the radio interface unit400.

The radio interface unit 400 e may include a particular identificationsetting such that it may be differentiated from the other radiointerface units. For example, this identification setting may be in theform of a designation setting (e.g., serial number), whereupon eachparticular radio interface unit has a particular designation (e.g., aparticular serial number). In another embodiment, the identificationsetting may be in the form of an address setting (e.g., a media accesscontrol (MAC) address). In yet another embodiment, in order to ensureproper differentiation among a plurality of units, each radio interfaceunit may include both a designation setting and an address setting. Forexample, both radio interface unit 400 b and radio interface unit 400 emay be associated with particular address (e.g., address 5). In order todifferentiate between these radio interface units 400 b and 400 e, eachradio interface unit 400 b and 400 e is given a particular designationsetting (e.g., particular serial numbers). In this way, radio interfaceunits may be differentiated.

Referring back to the drawings and to FIGS. 2A and 2B in particular, awireless device 102 communicates 904 with eight installations of faultedcircuit indicators 200 a-200 h. As illustrated, each installation offaulted circuit indicators consists of a radio interface unit, and fourseparate groups (“ways”) of faulted circuit indicators, wherein eachgroup has three faulted circuit indicators, one for each phase. Forexample, the installation shown at 200 e, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2Bincludes four separate groups 206 a-d of faulted circuit indicatorsconnected to a radio interface unit 400 e through cables 220 e with aseparate short range antenna 202 econnected through cable 208 e. Thisradio interface unit 400 e may include a particular setting such that itmay be differentiated from the other radio interface units. For example,this identification setting may be in the form of a designation setting(e.g., serial number), whereupon each particular radio interface unithas a particular designation (e.g., a particular serial number). Inanother embodiment, the identification setting may be in the form of anaddress setting (e.g., a media access control (MAC) address). In yetanother embodiment, in order to ensure proper differentiation among aplurality of units, each radio interface unit may include both adesignation setting and an address setting. For example, both the radiointerface unit 400 b and radio interface unit 400 e may be associatedwith a particular address (e.g., address 5). In order to differentiatebetween these radio interface units 400 b and 400 e, each radiointerface unit 400 b and 400 e is given a particular designation setting(e.g., particular serial numbers). In this way, radio interface unitsmay be differentiated.

Each faulted circuit indicator within these separate groups 206 a-d maybe used to monitor the various phases (e.g., commonly referred to as theA, B, C phases) associated therewith. For example, each of the faultedcircuit indicators associated with way 206 a may be used to monitor thethree phases associated therewith. Through this system, the installation200 e of faulted circuit indicators 206 a, 206 b, 206 c, 206 d maycommunicate with wireless device 102.

In one embodiment in which the identification setting of each radiointerface unit is an address setting, the address setting of a radiointerface unit 400 may be adjusted by simply turning the address dial414 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 a and 4 b. Although this embodimentspecifically describes the setting in the form of an identificationsetting and, more particularly an address setting, the setting to beadjusted may be any setting, (e.g., a designation setting, powersetting, communication setting, etc.). Moreover, although a dial isspecifically shown, any actuator is suitable (e.g., a linearmulti-position switch instead of a dial).

The address dial 414 may also be self-contained. Accordingly, theaddress dial does not mechanically or electrically engage any of theinternal electronic components contained within the housing 402 of theradio interface unit. This allows for the housing 402 of the radiointerface unit to be substantially self-contained. As such, thesubstantially self-contained housing 402 allows the radio interface unit400 to be submergible and capable of withstanding harsh environments.This arrangement is an example of a system for adjusting the settings ofa power system device using a magnetically coupled actuator.

More specifically, FIG. 15 illustrates the address dial of FIGS. 4 a and4 b. The address dial generally includes a plurality of magnets situatedin a select arrangement. By turning the address dial 414, the pluralityof magnets may be situated in various select arrangements. The selectarrangements may correspond to various select addresses. In theillustrated embodiment, turning the address dial 414 in thecounter-clockwise direction progresses through the various addresses inincreasing order. Alternatively, the radio interface unit may beconfigured such that turning the address dial 414 in the clockwisedirection progresses through the various addresses in increasing order.

In an embodiment, the magnetically coupled address dial 414 has a startposition at 901 and a circular rotatable dial with a plurality ofembedded magnets (e.g., 902 a to 902 d). The arrangement of magnets maycorrespond to select addresses. More specifically, when the magnets arecoupled to one or more magnetic field sensors such as Hall effectsensors or Reed switches 504 a, 504 b and 504 c at positions A, B and C,the select arrangement of the magnets is detected and a select addresscorresponding thereto is provided.

In an embodiment of the present invention, address dial 414 includesfour magnets 902 a to 902 d, which may be coupled to three magneticfield sensors for detecting the select arrangement of the magnets. TheHall effect sensors or Reed switches 504 a to 504 c are connected to amicroprocessor 310 (FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D) within radio interfaceunit 400. The microprocessor processes the select magnet arrangement andprovides a select address corresponding thereto.

The illustrated embodiment has eight settable positions indicated atposition A as a position pointer 904. The three bits read by Hall effectsensors or Reed switches 504 a, 504 b and 504 c represent binaryaddresses corresponding to select radio interface units. For example,magnets such as 902 a and 902 b coupled to Hall effect sensors or Reedswitches A and B will form a binary bit of 011. This binary bit providesfor a specific binary address for the radio interface unit. A binaryaddress table corresponds to the pointer position 904 can be constructedas below:

Pointer Position Hall Sensor coupled Binary Address 1 N/C 000 2 AB 011 3BC 110 4 A 001 5 AC 101 6 B 010 7 C 100 8 ABC 111

Fewer or more addresses can be accomplished by using fewer or morepermanent magnets and/or fewer or more Hall effect sensors or Reedswitches in similar arrangement. In an embodiment, the magneticallycoupled address dial 414 magnet and magnetic field sensor positionpattern can be also mirrored or permutated for the same number ofaddresses.

As shown in FIG. 4A, the radio interface unit 400 may also include apower dial 406 for effecting the power of the unit. The power dial 406may include a magnet, which may be adjustable such that power issupplied to the radio interface unit when the magnet is coupled to aswitch contained in the housing of the radio interface unit. The powerdial 406 may further be coupled to the address setting dial 414 suchthat every time the address setting dial 414 position is changed thepower dial 406 will turn to the reset position to power off the radiointerface unit 400. In this manner, the previous address setting willnot be stored.

In another embodiment, by turning the power dial 406 to “ON” position,the radio interface unit 400 may be adapted to execute the followingsequence:

1) Measure the battery voltage. If the voltage is below a minimumvoltage, then turn off the radio interface unit 400, otherwise save themeasured voltage.

2) Perform a complete RAM and Flash diagnostic test and record theresults in RAM

3) Read configuration parameters and enter normal operation.

In an embodiment, the address dial 414 includes a magnetically coupledaddress interface that is water tight sealed using potting material. Themagnetically coupled address interface is operable in an environmentexposed to water such as an outdoor, overhead or undergroundinstallation.

FIG. 16A depicts a circuit diagram of an embodiment of a magneticallycoupled address interface. As illustrated in FIG. 16A, the address dial414 includes a magnetically coupled address interface 415 a or 415 bincluding an arrangement of a plurality of magnets 930. When the magnets930 are coupled to the magnetic field sensors 910, a select address 918may be provided. The various addresses 918 are dependent upon thevarious arrangements of the magnets. A microprocessor (or other logicdevice such as an FPGA, ASIC, or discrete logic) 310 may further beprovided for processing the select arrangement of magnets and providingaddresses 918 corresponding thereto. The microprocessor 310 may furtherbe adapted to provide a power management output control 916 to activateor deactivate the biasing circuits 940 a or 940 b of the magnetic fieldsensor 910. In an embodiment, the magnetic field sensors 910 are aplurality of hall-effect sensors or a plurality of Reed switches.

In another embodiment, a battery-saving environment for the radiointerface unit is further provided whereupon the magnetic field sensors910 are turned on momentarily and turned off after the addresses areread. For example, the radio interface unit may be adapted to turn onupon activation by a power management control 916 (e.g., the power dialof FIG. 5) or upon receiving an external request command from anexternal device via the microprocessor 310.

In an embodiment, the biasing circuit 940 a includes a power source Vdd,a plurality of pull up resistors (not shown in FIG. 8B) and at least atransistor such as a P-channel MOSFET 914 that supplies the biasingvoltage Vhes/Vreed to the magnetic field sensor 910. In an embodiment, apower management control I/O 916 in the microprocessor 310 activates ordeactivates the biasing circuit 940 a by controlling the gate voltage ofthe P-channel MOSFET 914. Upon an initial power on or a power-on-reset,the control I/O 916 activates the biasing circuit 940 a to bias themagnetic field sensor 910 for a brief period such as approximately 100microseconds to about 150 microseconds. The biasing voltage Vhes/Vreedis turned off after the addresses 918 are read by the microprocessor310. In an embodiment, subsequent to reading the addresses 918, thecontrol I/O 916 deactivates the biasing circuit 940 a indefinitely untilthe power management issues a control I/O 916 to reactivate the biasingcircuit 940 a.

The activation or deactivation of the magnetic field sensor 910 may becontrolled by a factory set power management program in themicroprocessor 310 or upon receiving an external request command from anexternal device. The external devices may include a hand held terminal,PDA, cellular phone or laptop host computer, alternatively mounted in avehicle. When the biasing circuit 940 a is deactivated, the magneticfield sensor 910 consumes essentially no current, thus extending thebattery life.

FIG. 16B depicts another embodiment of a magnetically coupled addressinterface 415 b. As shown in FIG. 16B, a biasing circuit 940 b includesconnecting the ground to an N-channel MOSFET 915 while the biasingvoltage Vhes/Vreed is connected to Vdd. The biasing circuit is activatedor deactivated through controlling the gate of the N-channel MOSFET 915.In either embodiments, the transistors used in biasing circuits 940 a or940 b can be bipolar transistors or any suitable switching transistorsto perform the activation or deactivation switching function.

FIG. 16C depicts an embodiment of a magnetically coupled addressinterface 415 c between a plurality of hall-effect sensors to amicroprocessor. In an embodiment, three hall-effect sensors 910 a to 910c are used as magnetic field sensors to sense respective magnets 930 ato 930 c. The Hall effect sensors 910 a to 910 c outputs are open drainand respective pull-up resistors R1 to R3 with values ranging from about10 kOhm to about 100 kOhm connected to the biasing voltage Vhes are usedto indicate logic levels 1 in respective addresses 918 a to 918 c toI/O1 to I/O3 of microprocessor 310. In the presence of magnets 930 a to930 c, the Hall sensors 910 a to 910 c will give a logic level 0 to therespective addresses 918 a to 918 c.

In an embodiment illustrated, the biasing circuit 940 c uses atransistor such as a P-channel MOSFET 914, a PNP bipolar transistor orany suitable switching transistor (not shown) to activate or deactivatethe biasing circuit 940 c. In an alternate embodiment, the biasingcircuit 940 c uses a transistor such as a N-channel MOSFET 915, a NPNbipolar transistor or any suitable switching transistor (not shown)connected to the ground COM_GND to activate or deactivate the biasingcircuit 940 c, with the biasing voltage Vhes connected to Vdd in thisscheme. An optional discharging resistor R7, with values of hundreds ofkOhms connected to the ground COM_GND can be used for discharging anyremaining voltages, with Hall effect sensors 910 a to 910 c are powereddown to prevent floating address lines 918 a to 918 c to I/O1 to I/O3 inmicroprocessor 310.

FIG. 16D depicts another embodiment of a magnetically coupled addressinterface 415 d between a plurality of Reed switches to amicroprocessor. In an embodiment, three Reed switches 910 d to 910 f areused as magnetic field sensor to sense respective magnets 930 d to 930f. The Reed switches 910 d to 910 f are connected to respective pull-upresistors R4 to R6. In the absence of magnet, the pull-up resistorsindicate logic 1 to address lines 918 d to 918 f. In the presence ofmagnets 930 d to 930 f, the Reed switches 910 d to 910 f close where thecurrents are shunt to ground, thus indicating logic 0 in addresses 918 dto 918 f to I/O1 to I/O3 of microprocessor 310.

In an embodiment of battery saving circuit design, the biasing voltageVreed can be powered with On/Off control from a microprocessor I/O 916,with a higher current buffer 932 or with a P-channel MOSFET 914, a PNPbipolar transistor or any suitable switching transistor (not shown). Thechoice may be factory set by design. The pull-up resistors R4 to R6 canbe in a range from about 10 kOhm to about 100 kohm, allowing arelatively weak voltage source to drive three or more resistors and Reedswitches. In the previous embodiment shown in FIG. 16C, the Hall-effectsensors 910 a to 910 c cannot be driven from a microprocessor 310 norfrom a current buffer 932 as shown in FIG. 16D since relatively highcurrents are needed to be driven with a P-channel, or N-channel MOSFETsor any suitable switching transistor with a proper circuit connection.In an alternate embodiment, the biasing circuit 940 d can use aN-channel MOSFET 915, a NPN bipolar transistor or any suitable switchingtransistor (not shown) connected to the Reed switches ground GND whilethe biasing voltage Vreed is connected to Vdd. A discharging resistor R8of values of hundreds of kOhms connected to the ground GND may be usedfor discharging any remaining voltages when all Reed switches 910 d to910 f are open, preventing floating address lines 918 d to 918 f to I/O1to I/O3 to microprocessor 310.

FIG. 17A illustrates an example of a user interface of the wirelessdevice 102 that may be used in the systems illustrated in FIGS. 2A and2B. The user interface includes a power indicator 1001, such as a greenLED, which is illuminated when the wireless device 102 is turned on viapower button 1024. In addition, the user interface includes twocontrols, an information acquisition control which is implemented as a“scan” button 1012, and an identification setting increment controlwhich is implemented as a “next” button 1010. The “scan” button 1012causes the wireless device 102 to scan the nearby area for any radiointerface units (e.g., those associated with the installation of faultedcircuit indicators of FIGS. 2A and 2B) that may be present. During thescan, each radio interface unit may be adapted to communicate itsidentification setting (e.g., address), its status, and the status ofany faulted circuit indicators that are connected to it.

Once a scan is completed, a summary of the scan is displayed on a radioaddress indicator 1006. The radio address indicator 1006 comprises aplurality of radio interface unit status indicators. Each LED of theradio address indicator 1006 may correspond to each radio interface unitassociated with each one of the installations of faulted circuitindicators 200 a-h of FIGS. 2A and 2B. The radio interface unit statusindicators may be implemented using eight tri-color LEDs. Depending onthe result of the scan operation, the LEDs within the radio addressindicator 1006 will be illuminated in different ways. If a radiointerface unit with a particular address is not detected, then the radioaddress indicator 1006 LED with the corresponding address will not beilluminated. Conversely, for each radio interface unit detected, acorresponding LED within the radio address indicator 1006 will displayamber, green or red. A particular LED within the radio address indicator1006 displays green if none of the faulted circuit indicators connectedto the particular radio interface unit have detected a fault,Conversely, a particular LED within the radio address indicator 1006displays red if any of the faulted circuit indicators connected to thecorresponding radio interface unit have detected a fault. As discussedlater, a particular LED may be illuminated as amber if the correspondingradio interface unit is presently selected as discussed below.

The “next” button 1010 allows a user of the wireless device 102 tosequentially step through each of the radio interface units that thewireless device 102 detected during its last scan operation. The userinterface of the wireless device 102 also includes a group (way)indicator 1022, which displays the status of any group of faultedcircuit indicators connected to the radio interface unit presentlymonitored by the wireless device 102. The group (way) indicator 1022includes a plurality of faulted circuit indicator status indicators,which as shown, are twelve LEDs 1008. The twelve LEDs are organized infour rows, each corresponding to one of four separate groups (ways) offaulted circuit indicators, and three columns, each corresponding to aseparate phase 1014. For example, if the user were to select the displayfor radio interface 400 e of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the group (way) indicators1022 will correspond to each group of faulted circuit indicators 206a-d, whereas if the user were to select the display for radio interface400 h of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the group (way) indicators 1022 willcorrespond to each group of faulted circuit indicators 206 e-h. Asdiscussed above, each of the faulted circuit indicators associated withthe particular group (or way) are generally associated with differentphases (e.g., A, B, C phases) and accordingly will correspond to theLEDs 1008.

During operation, if a particular faulted circuit indicator is notfaulted, the corresponding LED will display green. Conversely, if aparticular faulted circuit indicator is faulted, the corresponding LEDwill display red. And if the particular faulted circuit indicator is notconnected, the corresponding LED will not be illuminated.

The user interface of the wireless device 102 also includes a systemhealth indicator 1018, which displays information about the health ofthe presently selected radio interface unit. One implementation of thesystem health indicator 1018 is a bi-color LED, which displays greenwhen there are no issues with the selected radio interface unit, and redwhen the selected radio interface unit has an issue that requiresmaintenance. In another embodiment, a tri-color LED may be used toindicate the system life of the radio interface unit. For example, agreen color may indicate that greater than one year of system liferemains. An amber color may indicate that less than one year of systemlife remains. A red color may indicate that complete depletion of systemlife is imminent. In one embodiment, the system life of the radiointerface unit may equate to the battery life associated therewith.

FIG. 17B illustrates an embodiment of the disclosed user interface 102after a scan operation has been completed, and the “next” button hasbeen pushed to display the status of the faulted circuit indicatorsattached to the radio interface unit with address 5 (e.g., 400 e of FIG.2). Among others, the radio interface unit with address 8 has reportedas problem free as indicated by the LED 1020 being illuminated as green.Also, the radio interface unit with address 4 indicates that that unitis either not installed, or the radio within the radio interface unithas malfunctioned, as indicated by the unlit LED 1003.

For illustration purposes, the status of the faulted circuit indicatorsattached to the radio interface unit with address 5 (e.g., 400 e of FIG.2), are being displayed in the group (way) indicator 1022. This isindicated by LED 1007, which is displayed as amber in the illustratedembodiment. All faulted circuit indicators in group or way 1 (e.g., 206a of FIGS. 2A and 2B), group or way 2 (e.g., 206 b of FIGS. 2A and 2B),and group or way 3 (e.g., 206 c of FIG. 2) are installed, and none havedetected faults. Therefore, the particular LEDs corresponding to thosefaulted circuit indicators are illuminated green. For instance, the LED1016 corresponding to way 2 (e.g., 206 b of FIGS. 2A and 2B), phase C isilluminated green. In addition, the group (way) indicator 1022 indicatesthat none of the faulted circuit indicators corresponding to group orway 4 (e.g., 206 d of FIGS. 2A and 2B) are installed. In the illustratedembodiment, this is indicated with an unlit LED, such as the LED 1015corresponding to group or way 4, phase C. Because, the faulted circuitindicators corresponding to group or way 4 (206 d) are shown to beconnected in FIGS. 2A and 2B, this may indicate a problem in theconnection of the faulted circuit indicators.

In FIG. 17C, the status of the faulted circuit indicators attached tothe radio interface unit with address 5 are being displayed. However,during the previous scan, a number of the faulted circuit indicatorsattached to the radio interface unit with address 5 reported a faultcondition. For instance, LEDs 1009, 1011, and 1013 all indicate that thefaulted circuit indicators corresponding to those LEDs reported a fault.For illustration purposes, the faulted circuit indicator associated withphase B of group or way 2 (e.g., 206 b of FIG. 2) is faulted whereas thefaulted circuit indicators associated with phases A and C of group orway 2 (e.g., 206 d of FIG. 2) are connected and not faulted.

According to one embodiment, the user interface 102 will display on thegroup (way) 1022 and phase 1008 indicators the status of the faultedcircuit indicators attached to the radio interface unit that firstreports a faulted circuit. If none of the radio interface units report afaulted circuit, then the user interface 102 will display on the group(way) 1022 and phase 1008 indicators the status of the faulted circuitindicators attached to the radio interface unit with the lowest numberedaddress. For example, FIG. 17D indicates that at least one faultedcircuit indicator attached to radio interface unit at address 3 reportsa fault, as well as at least one faulted circuit indicator attached toradio interface unit at address 8. As soon as the radio interface unitwith address 3 reports a fault, the status of the faulted circuitindicators connected to the radio interface unit associated with address3 will be displayed on the group (way) and phase 1022, 1008 indicators.In order to view the status of the faulted circuit indicators attachedto the radio interface unit at address 8, the “next” button 1010 may bepushed enough times to scroll to that report.

During operation, a user will approach an area with one or more groupsof faulted circuit indicators installed. The user will then start a scanoperation using the wireless device 102 by pressing the “scan” button1012. The radio address indicator 1006 will provide an overview of thestatus of the faulted circuit indicators attached to the different radiointerface units. For those radio interface units with no attachedfaulted circuit indicators asserting a fault condition, thecorresponding LEDs within the radio address indicator will displaygreen. Conversely, for those radio interface units attached to faultedcircuit indicators which have asserted a fault, the corresponding LEDswithin the radio address indicator will display red. And for those radiointerface units which are not installed or which have radiocommunication, the corresponding LEDs within the radio address indicatorwill not be illuminated.

The radio interface is indicated within the radio address indicator bythe corresponding LED being illuminated amber within the radio addressindicator 1006. The user may view the scan results for a different radiointerface unit by pressing the “next” button 1010, which selects theradio interface unit with the next lowest address, until the desiredradio interface unit is selected. Using this technique, the user candetermine which faulted circuit indicators are asserting a fault withinrange of the wireless device. The user can also tell if any radiointerface units are malfunctioning due to a low battery or other reason.The system health indicator 118 will show the system health of the radiointerface unit currently being displayed according to the radio addressindicator 1006. And the user can determine if a faulted circuitindicator has become disconnected from the appropriate radio interfaceunit. All of the above can be done without accessing any of the faultedcircuit indicators, which can result in enormous time savings,particularly when dealing with underground installations.

In yet another embodiment, the handheld wireless device 102 may beadapted to indicate an interference or collision of signals receivedfrom more than one radio interface device. For example, LEDs associatedwith the radio address indicator 1006 may flash between two colors toindicate that at least two signals have been received from radiointerface devices having different unique serial numbers but using thesame address in the vicinity. In one embodiment, an LED associated withradio address indicator 1006 may flash between green and amber to signalthat neither radio interface unit contains a fault. Alternatively, anLED associated with radio address indicator 1006 may flash between redand amber to signal that at least one of the radio interface unitscontains a fault. When selecting the display for the address in which acollision has occurred, the way 1022 and phase 1008 indicators mayalternate between indications for the data of each of the radiointerface units. In yet another embodiment, a particular designation maybe shown (e.g., a particular serial number associated with a particularradio interface unit) in order to differentiate between two radiointerface units having the same address.

In addition to the wireless devices LED display, the user interface mayfurther include other means for communicating information. Suchinformation may include, but is not limited to, radio interface unitaddress, radio interface unit serial number, faulted circuit indicatorstatus, faulted circuit indicator fault location, diagnostic parameters,firmware revisions, radio interface unit health, counter information,radio interface unit GPS position, handheld device GPS position,navigation information or any other information. In one embodiment, theadditional communication means may be a liquid crystal display (LED) asshown in 1002 on FIGS. 17A-17D.

The wireless device may also communicate data related to any detectiondevice, other than FCIs, as defined above. For example, the wirelessdevice may communicate data related to the detection of water, highvoltage electric field, specific gravity, light, and sound, gas sensorssuch as CO, CO2, SOx, NOx, Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, ChlorineDioxide, VOCs, Combustibles, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine,Formaldehyde, Germane, Hydrogen, Hydrogen Chloride, Hydrogen Cyanide,Hydrogen Fluoride, Hydrogen Selenide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone,Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, and the like; pressure sensors forsensing, for example, pressure in a gas line, water line, waste line,oil line, and the like; temperature sensors; electromagnetic radiationsensors; radiation sensors; smoke sensors; particulate matter sensors;liquid phase sensors such as pH, turbidity, Br−, Ca2+, Cl−, CN−, Cu2+,F−, I−, K+, Na+, NH4+, NO3−, Pb2+, S−(AG+), conductivity sensors, andthe like; electrical sensors such as under voltage sensors, over voltagesensors, under current sensors, over current sensors, frequency sensorsand the like; power factor alarms; demand overload indicators; sensorsthat detect the presence of primary system voltage; sensors thatdetermine if a sealed subsurface fuse has operated by sensing voltage oneach side of fuse element with loss of load current; sensors that sensethe open or closed position of a subsurface switch; voltage sensorswhich monitors status of lead-acid batteries used to run controller ormotor operators for subsurface switches; power quality sensors whichdetect primary voltage swells and sags along the distribution system,and other sensors that detect power quality issues and send an alarmstatus.

In another embodiment, the communication means may be a speaker 1004.This speaker 1004 can communicate the occurrence of an event 1019 to auser through prerecorded or synthesized messages, chirps, dog barks,beeps, or other sounds. Further, the speaker 1004 may communicate morecomplicated messages through Morse code. In particular, among othermessages, Morse code may be used to communicate the occurrence of afault by a monitored faulted circuit indicator or the occurrence of lowsystem life in a radio interface unit or a faulted circuit indicator. AsMorse code is well known in the art, its particulars are not discussedhere.

The foregoing embodiments are drawn toward using faulted circuitindicators 206 as a sensing probe to indicate the presence of apredetermined condition, namely, a faulted circuit. However, because thefaulted circuit indicator sends either a positive (fault) or negative(no fault) signal to the radio interface unit 400, any sensing probethat is capable of detecting a predetermined condition and sending apositive or negative signal to the radio interface unit 400 may be used.For example, it may be necessary to communicate information about thetemperature inside the vault underground 200, In this embodiment, asillustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, instead of using a faulted circuitindicator 206, a temperature transducer 208 may be used as the sensingprobe. The temperature transducer 208 may be coupled to the article fromwhich knowledge about the temperature needs to be communicated. Thetemperature transducer 208 may be configured to send a positive signalin the case that the temperature sensed is either above or below apredetermined threshold. Thus, the user would be able to determinewhether the temperature sensed by the transducer 208 was above or belowa predetermined level, or if the temperature transducer probe had becomedisconnected from the radio interface unit 400 by the display of theappropriate LED 1008. For example, if the temperature transducer 208corresponds to group (way) 4 phase C, the user will understand the stateof this probe by the display of the LED in group (way) 4, phase C.

in one embodiment, the various LEDs may function so as to indicatedifferent colors for a colorblind person. For example, if the LEDs arecapable of showing red or green, the LED may be programmed to flash forred, and stay constant for green. In this way, a user who cannototherwise distinguish between red and green would be able to determineif the LED was reporting a red or a green color.

An embodiment of the schematic of the circuitry of the wireless device102 is shown in FIG. 17 e. The reference numbers in FIG, 17 e correspondto the functions as shown in FIGS. 17 a-d.

The wireless device 102 of FIGS. 2 a and 2 b may further be adapted tocommunicate data to and from the radio interface units 400 a-400 h.Referring to the drawings, and back to FIG. 3 in particular, a wirelessdevice communicates with a radio interface unit connected to a number ofpower system devices (e.g., detection devices or faulted circuitindicators). The radio frequency faulted circuit indicator monitor 400also includes a microprocessor 310 with some amount of memory 342. Thememory may be in the form of randomly accessible memory (e.g., any typeof randomly accessible memory, such as SRAM, DRAM, internal registers,FLASH, etc.). Note that the memory need not be integrated within themicroprocessor. The microprocessor is coupled to an RF transceiver 322,which is coupled to an antenna 202 directly or via a radio frequencycable 208. The radio frequency faulted circuit indicator monitor 400communicates with a wireless device 102. A wide variety of wirelesscommunications protocols could be used, such as 802.11. The particularwireless communications protocol used is not significant to thisinvention, and as wireless communications protocols are well known inthe art, no such protocol is described.

Turning to FIG. 18, possible data formats for messages used to monitorand modify memory locations within the radio frequency faulted circuitindicator monitor are detailed. The “peek request” message 600 of FIG.18A is sent by the wireless device to the radio frequency faultedcircuit indicator monitor, and is used to retrieve the contents of aparticular memory location or range of memory locations within the radiofrequency faulted circuit indicator monitor. In the illustratedembodiment, the peek request message 600 contains a header 602 with dataidentifying the desired message (i.e.; peek request), and may includeinformation (e.g. an identification number of the faulted circuitindicator monitor) about the sending unit and/or the receiving unit. Inaddition, the illustrated peek request message 600 contains a field withthe start address 604 of the data the user wishes to view as well as thenumber of bytes 606 starting at the start address 604 that the userwishes to view. To ensure reliability, the peek request message may alsocontain a cyclical redundancy check (CRC) 608, which is used to validatethe contents of the message. Alternatively, the peek request messagecould use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum orparity bit.

FIG. 18B illustrates a “peek response” message 700, which contains thedata requested by the peek request message. In the illustratedembodiment, the peek response message contains a header 702, withinformation identifying the message as a peek response, as well asinformation about the sending and/or receiving unit. In addition, thepeek response message contains a data payload 704, with the contents ofthe memory locations requested. To ensure reliability, the peek responsemessage may contain a CRC 706, which is used to validate the contents ofthe message. Alternatively, the peek response message could use adifferent means for data validation, such as a checksum or parity bit.The peek response message may also include the status of the faultedcircuit indicator monitor, which may include, for example, a result froma self test such as a memory (RAM and/or flash memory) test, theexpected useful life expectancy, battery usage, and the like.

FIG. 18C illustrates a “poke request” message 800, which is used tomodify memory locations in the faulted circuit indicator or faultedcircuit indicator monitor. In the illustrated embodiment, the pokerequest message 800 contains a header 802, with information identifyingthe message as a poke request, as well as information about the sendingand/or receiving unit, In addition, the poke request message 800contains a start address 804, which identifies the address or range ofaddresses the user wishes to modify. The poke request message alsocontains a field with the number of bytes 806 to modify, as well as adata field 808 containing the bytes to be put into the address or rangeof addresses. Note that another scheme to identify the particular memorylocation or range of memory locations would work just as well. Finally,the poke request message may contain a CRC 810, which is used tovalidate the contents of the message. Alternatively, the poke requestmessage could use a different means for data validation, such as achecksum or parity bit.

The poke request message could also be used to initiate a control orcommand in the faulted circuit indicator or faulted circuit indicatormonitor. In this embodiment, the poke request message 800 may include astart address 804 which indicates to the faulted circuit indicator orfaulted circuit indicator monitor that the data 808 includes a commandor control. The data may indicate to the faulted circuit indicator orfaulted circuit indicator monitor to undergo any of the availablecommands or controls on the faulted circuit indicator or faulted circuitindicator monitor, such as, for example, a Power on Reset (POR) whichresets all faulted circuit indicator latches to a closed state. Anotherexample of a command or control is requiring the faulted circuitindicator or faulted circuit indicator monitor to undergo a completeFLASH and RAM self test. The command or control may require the faultedcircuit indicator or faulted circuit indicator monitor to undergo asystem test and write the results to a particular address, which may belater viewed using a peek request. Other commands or controls mayrequire the faulted circuit indicator or faulted circuit indicatormonitor to undergo an update of Data Flash, extend operating modes,decrease operating modes, or change a state of operation.

FIG. 18D illustrates a “poke response” message 900, which is used toacknowledge the poke request message 800. In the illustrated embodiment,the poke response message 900 contains a header 902, with informationidentifying the message as a poke response, as well as information aboutthe sending and/or receiving unit. To ensure reliability, the pokeresponse message may also contain a CRC 904, which is used to validatethe contents of the message. Alternatively, the poke response messagecould use a different means for data validation, such as a checksum orparity bit.

FIG. 18E illustrates another “poke response” message 1000, which is usedto acknowledge the poke request message 800 and indicate that the pokewas successful. In the illustrated embodiment, the poke response message1000 contains a header 1002, with information identifying the message asa poke response, as well as information about the sending and/orreceiving unit. The illustrated poke response message 1000 also includesa status byte 1006, which communicates that the poke was successful,that is, that the requested memory change had taken place. To ensurereliability, the poke response message may also contain a CRC 1004,which is used to validate the contents of the message. Alternatively,the poke response message could use a different means for datavalidation, such as a checksum or parity bit.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, during operation the user will first identifya particular power system device that the user wishes to troubleshoot.For example, the power system device may be in the form of a faultedcircuit indicator or faulted circuit indicator monitor (or other powersystem device) 400. As shown at 500, the user will then use the wirelessdevice 102 to specify the device and select a particular memory locationor locations within the power system device which the user wishes toview. As shown at 502, the wireless device 102 will then transmit a peekrequest message (e.g. a peek request for the memory location of step500) to the power system device 400 that the user previously selected.As shown at 504, the targeted power system device 400 will retrieve theselected memory location or locations located therein. Thereafter, asshown at 506, the power system device 400 responds with a peek responsemessage containing the contents of the memory locations the user wishedto view. The wireless device 102 receives the message and displays therequested values as shown at 508. Depending on the contents of thememory location or locations that the user viewed, the user may wish tomodify the contents of those locations.

To modify the contents of memory in the power system device 400, theuser begins by choosing the address or addresses to modify using thewireless device 102 (as shown at 510), along with the values to placeinto the chosen memory locations (as shown at 512). The wireless device102 then generates a poke request message (e.g. selected location andvalues), which is wirelessly transmitted to the targeted device as shownat 514. As discussed herein, the poke request message may include acommand or control for the power system device 400 to execute. The powersystem device 400 recognizes in 520 whether the poke request messageincludes a command or control. If the poke request message does includea command or control; the power system device 400 executes the commandor control in 522. The targeted device may further generate a pokeresponse message in 524 including the success/failure or other statusthat is wirelessly transmitted to the wireless device 102. The pokeresponse message may indicate the success of the poke. The wirelessdevice 102 then displays the success/failure or other status in 518. If,however, the poke request does not include a command or control, themicroprocessor embedded within the targeted device then processes andexecutes the poke request message as shown at 516. Finally, the targeteddevice may further generate a poke response message in 524 including thesuccess/failure or other status that is wirelessly transmitted to thewireless device 102. The poke response message may indicate the successof the poke. The wireless device 102 then displays the success/failureor other status in 518.

In one embodiment, the poke may be followed by a peek to verify that thecontents of the memory were modified as requested, To accomplish thispeek sequence, the user selects a particular memory location orlocations within the power system device that the user wishes to viewusing the wireless device 102. This will likely be the memorylocation(s) for which the modification was requested in the prior poke.Next, as shown at 502, the wireless device 102 will then transmit a peekrequest message (e.g. memory location of step 500) to the power systemdevice 400 that the user previously selected. As shown at 504, thetargeted power system device 400 will retrieve the memory location orlocations located therein. Thereafter, as shown at 506, the power systemdevice 400 responds with a peek response message containing the contentsof the memory locations the user wished to view. The wireless device 102receives the message and displays the contents of the message as shownat 508. The wireless device 102 may compare the contents of the memorylocations requested with the requested modification and indicate to theuser whether the requested modification did occur.

In yet another embodiment, either the peek or poke message could includeany data related to the faulted circuit indicator or the power systemassociated therewith. For example, the message could contain informationrelating to the location of the faulted circuit indicator or thelocation of a condition in the power system. In one embodiment, themessage could include data relating to the GPS location of the faultedcircuit indicator or the GPS location of a fault on a transmission line.

In yet another embodiment, provided is a method for communicationbetween a portable terminal (e.g., the wireless device 102) and theradio interface unit 400 which maximizes the battery life of the radiointerface unit 400. Battery power consumption is kept to a minimum bykeeping the radio interface unit 400 in sleep mode most of the time.Since in an embodiment the transmission cycle consumes more power thanthe receiving cycle, the radio interface unit 400 may be further adaptedto transmit data to the wireless device 102 only upon successfullyreceiving a request command signal from the wireless device 102. In ananalogy, the wireless device 102 acts as a master device and the radiointerface unit 400 acts as a slave device.

The communication between the radio interface unit 400 and the wirelessdevice 102 may be achieved by a number of wireless communicationprotocols. For example, suitable protocols may include frequency shiftkeying (FSK), phase shift keying (PSK), code devision multiple access(CDMA), spread spectrum (e.g., direct sequencing spread spectrum), orother wireless communication protocols.

Accordingly, under normal conditions, i.e. no conductor fault detected,the radio interface unit is in sleep mode or a “slow mode” at mosttimes. It wakes up periodically to listen for a request command. When afault is asserted by an FCI, the radio interface unit 400 is in a “fastmode” and wakes up more frequently to listen in anticipation of arequest command from the wireless device 102.

FIG. 20A illustrates a request command timing diagram for the wirelessdevice 102 according to an embodiment. This diagram specificallyillustrates request commands 1102 and 1104 transmitted in alternatingfrequencies f1 and f2 over a select interval of time 1108 at a selectrequest time 1110 or byte length. After each request command, thewireless device 102, as a requester, listens for a response over aresponse window 1112 (e.g. 0.3 to 0.5 msec) before transmitting a secondcommand in a second frequency. A response will be sent within a definedresponse time 1114 b almost immediately after a request command isreceived by the radio interface unit 400 during the listening window1106 in the corresponding frequency. The slot time 1108 is the sum ofthe request time 1110 and the response window 1112.

FIG. 21 is a timing diagram for the radio interface unit 400 accordingto an embodiment. This timing diagram depicts periodic polling cycles1126 of the radio interface unit 400 with listening windows 1106 and1109 of polling packets 1122 and 1124 in alternating frequencies f1 andf2. To reduce power consumption, the radio interface unit 400 employs apolling for carrier scheme, which detects a presence of a requestcommand. Accordingly, during the listening window 1106 or 1109, theradio interface unit 400, as a responder, checks for a signal. If theradio interface unit does not receive a signal above a predeterminedthreshold, the listening window 1106 expires and times out 1140. Theradio interface unit 400 then goes to sleep mode 1100 over a sleepperiod 1128.

FIG. 20B illustrates a request command timing diagram for the wirelessdevice 102 according to an embodiment. The listening window 1106 isgreater than the length of a first request time 1102, a response window1112, a second request time 1104, and a second response window 1112, andthe response time 1114 b is greater than the response window 1112. Inthis embodiment, the response window 1112 is shorter than the responsewhen the wireless device 102 does not detect the presence of a response,thereby reducing the total length of the listening window 1106.

FIG. 22 is a timing diagram for the radio interface unit 400 accordingto an embodiment wherein a request command 1102 is detected by a pollingpulse 1122 g at corresponding frequency f1. The radio interface unit 400wakes up from sleep 1100 periodically to listen for a message such asrequest commands 1102 and 1104 by f1 polling packet 1122 within thelistening window 1106. Since polling is in frequency f1, the requestcommand 1104 in frequency f2 is ignored by the polling pulse 1122 c infrequency f1. The time between the polling pulses 1122 a and 1122 b(i.e., when the radio interface unit 400 checks for request command orcarrier is the polling interval 1107). Polling activity ceases withinthe listening window 1106 once a polling pulse 1122 g detects a requestcommand 1102 by timing out 1140 and goes into sleep period 1129.

The sleep period duration varies depending on the status of the radiointerface unit. For multiple radio interface units, the sleep period foreach unit may have a set schedule different from that of other radiointerface units, or alternatively a randomized schedule, to lower thelikelihood that multiple radio interface units will respond to a singlerequest. There are generally three sleep modes: 1) Slow mode, i.e.longest period when no condition (e.g., fault) is asserted; e.g. 3 to 5sec to conserve battery power. 2) Fast mode, where at least a condition(e.g., a fault) is asserted to the radio interface unit. 3) Responsemode, where the radio interface unit polling pulse detects a requestcommand carrier with sufficient signal strength. The response mode sleepperiod 1129 varies between one to two slot time 1108 intervals from thelast detected carrier 1102.

The radio interface unit 400 sends back a response 1136 with a selectresponse time 1114 b after verifying the message in the request command1102 by verifying the cyclical request check (CRC) bits during a periodof brief delay 1142. The response action 1130 is according to the typeof request command message. The messages may further be verified by anumber of verification methods such as, for example, a cyclical requestcheck (CRC), check sum or parity bit validation scheme, or othermethods.

FIG. 23 is a timing diagram for the radio interface unit 400 accordingto an embodiment wherein the radio interface unit 400 successfullydetects a command request message 1102 by a polling pulse 1122 a at thebeginning of the listening window (as shown in FIG. 22) at correspondingfrequency f1. Polling activity ceases by timing out 1140 and goes tosleep 1100 in a Response mode sleep period 1131 with a duration ofapproximately between one to two slot times. Similarly, the radiointerface unit 400 wakes up at the end of the sleep period 1131 andopens the polling pulse 1122 k to a wider receiving window 1132 tocapture the next command request 1102. The radio interface unit 400sends back a response 1136 as action performed.

FIG. 24 illustrates a request command message 1102 a and a responsemessage 1136 a in a response action. The request command message 1102 ahas a predetermined number of bytes with a message size that variesdepending on being in a compact mode or an extended mode. For compactmode, the request command message 1102 a may include a preamble, a syncword, a request to response and CRC bits for validity check. Forextended mode, the request command message 1102 a may include additionalrequest code, serial number of radio and data packet. The responsemessage 1136 a has a message size that varies depending on being in acompact mode or an extended mode. For compact mode, the response packet1136 a includes a preamble, a sync word, an ECI radio serial number,data such as fault status, radio address, radio life, and 16 CRC bitsfor validity check. For extended mode, the response message 1136 aincludes additional request code and requested data.

Compact format messages may consist of a single request/response pair.Requests of this type are “broadcast” i.e. without an address field.Requests and response messages may also contain a predetermined numberof bytes.

Messages with the extended request mode are used to send multiple bytesof data to a responder. The responder then replies with anacknowledgment, which may include data. Messages with the extendresponse mode are used to send multiple bytes of data from a specificresponder to the requester.

The request field determines the specific meaning of the data. The syncword may be different from the one used in the other message mode toprevent responders that are listening for other message modes fromdetecting the message and trying to decode it. In the request message,the address field may also contain either the serial number which actsas a unique address of the responder that the requester is communicatingwith or other identifier (e.g., 0xFFFFFF. 0xFFFFFF) to indicate that therequest is a broadcast request and all responders should reply. Inresponse messages, the response field may contain the serial number ofthe responder.

FIG. 25 illustrates the power conserving communication protocol modechange between the wireless device (requester) and the radio interfaceunit (responder). This communication protocol may be adapted to supportseveral packet formats. In one embodiment, the protocol supports twopacket formats: a Compact mode 1142 and an Extended mode 1144. TheCompact mode 1142 is a protocol default in which there is no Addressfield in the request commands by the wireless device 102. The Extendedmode is used to send larger data packets between the wireless device 102and the radio interface unit 400.

The default Compact mode request and respond path 1142 a allows thewireless device 102 to broadcast and for the radio interface unit 400 torespond in Compact mode 1142. The Extended mode request and respond path1144 a allows the wireless device 102 to send a request command, and theradio interface unit 400 to respond in larger packets.

In FIG. 25, the wireless device 102 sends a Compact mode message with anExtended mode request command 1146 to one or more radio interface units.The radio interface units switch from Compact mode 1142 to Extended mode1144 and wait for the next request command in the Extended mode 1144.The wireless device 102 starts sending large packet messages in Extendedmode 1144 to the radio interface units, likewise the radio interfaceunits respond large packet messages in Extended mode 1144 to thewireless device 102 through path 1144 a. The Extended mode includes anaddress field in the request command packet 1102 a or message. Radiointerface units that receive a request command not addressed to them andnot broadcast shall return to listening for messages in the compactmode. If no message is received within a predetermined time (forexample, after a number of listening windows, an amount of time, or thelike), the radio interface unit may be adapted to time-out and revert tolistening for compact mode messages 1142 through path 1148.

FIG. 26 depicts an embodiment of a power conserving communicationprotocol algorithm in a radio interface unit 400. In step 1202, theradio interface unit 400 may be in three sleep modes: Slow, Fast orResponse Mode. Normal sleep mode is Slow mode. Fast mode is when acondition (e.g., fault) is asserted in the radio interface unit 400.Response mode is when a request command has been successfully detectedand the radio interface unit is ready to receive a request commandmessage.

In step 1204, the radio interface unit 400 is adapted to wake up andlisten for messages periodically. In step 1206, the radio interface unit400 reverts to Compact mode at step 1208 if the radio interface unit 400is in diagnostic mode and the listening window is timed out. Otherwise,the radio interface unit 400 detects for a message or carrier for thecorresponding frequency within the polling pulse window. If no messageis detected, the radio interface unit returns to sleep 1202. But if acarrier of corresponding frequency is detected, the radio interface unit400 stops polling and goes to step 1211 and sleep in Response modeperiod then wakes up to listen. In Step 1212, the polling pulse iswidened in order to capture or receive the next message in correspondingfrequency. In steps 1214 and 1216, a CRC validity check is performed toconfirm for a successful reception of the full message content. If thisrequest message is either a Peek or a Poke request command, the radiointerface unit 400 will change to Extended Mode. In step 1222, an actionwill be performed according to the request command. For a Peek requestcommand, the radio interface unit 400 will send to the requesterdiagnostic data such as setting parameters, counter reading, firmwarerevision or any radio status included in the request command message.For a Poke request command, the radio interface unit 400 is ready toreceive new operational parameters to be written onto the flash memorysuch as a firmware reconfiguration etc.

At the end of perform action, or failure of other events, the wirelessdevice 102 defaults back to sleep mode and in compact mode. In anotherembodiment, any early termination of the message will also default tosleep and compact mode.

In yet another embodiment, data may be communicated to the radiointerface unit via an optical communication interface. Referring to thedrawings, and to FIG. 27 in particular, an optical communication device732 is connected to an electronic device 701. For example, in oneembodiment, as will be described with respect to FIGS. 28 and 29 below,the electronic device may be in the form of a radio interface unit. Theelectronic device 701 may be hardened. The electronic device 701 may bea power system protection, control, or monitoring system such as afaulted circuit monitoring system. The electronic device 701 may includea radio for transmission of data. The illustrated electronic device 701includes a radio interface unit 400.

Referring back to FIG. 27, the optical communication device 732 isdepicted as connected to an electronic data source. For illustrationpurposes only, the embodiment shown in this figure depicts a notebookcomputer 738 connected to the optical communication device 732 via aninterface cable 730 using a wired protocol, such as Universal Serial Bus(USB) or RS232 interface. However, other embodiments could utilize ashort range wireless connection between the optical communication device732 and the notebook computer 738, a long range wireless connectionbetween the optical communication device 732 and a server located at aremote site (not shown), or some other mechanism for supplying data tothe optical communication device. In addition, the optical communicationdevice 732 may contain the data to be communicated to the electronicdevice 701.

The electronic device 701 contains a circuit board (not shown) with atleast one phototransmitter 702 as well as at least one photodetector706. The phototransmitter 702 is disposed within the housing 707 of theelectronic device 701 so that the axial line of the lens of thephototransmitter 702 is centered within an aperture 404 of the housing707. The phototransmitter is electrically coupled to a driver circuit718, which translates data from the microprocessor 310 into electricalpulses suitable for transmission by the phototransmitter 702. Dependingon the type of driver circuit used as well as the microprocessor and thephototransmitter, additional interface circuitry may be required, suchas the interface circuit depicted in FIG. 27. In the illustratedembodiment, the lens of the phototransmitter 702 is completely coveredby a width 704 of semi-opaque material, which may be a potting material514. Preferably, the electronic components are environmentally sealedwithin the potting material 514. A semi-opaque material is one that ispartially transmissive to a particular wavelength of radiation. Thepotting material may be, but is not limited to, an epoxy based material,a urethane based material, a silicone based material, an acrylic basedmaterial, or a polyester based material.

The electronic device 701 also contains at least one photodetector 706.The photodetector 706 is disposed within the electronic device 701 sothat the axial line of the lens of the photodetector 702 is centeredwithin the aperture 404. The photodetector 706 is electrically coupledto a receiver circuit, such as a UART, which is capable of transformingthe electrical output of the photodetector 706 into a formunderstandable by the microprocessor 310. Depending on the type ofreceiver circuit 716 used, as well as the microprocessor and thephotodetector, additional interface circuitry may be required. In theillustrated embodiment, the lens of the photodetector 706 is completelycovered by a width 704 of semi-opaque material, which may be pottingmaterial 514.

The microprocessor 310 within the electronic device 701 may require someamount of random access memory 740 and some amount of persistentstorage, such as FLASH memory 742. Note that the memory 740 andpersistent storage may reside within the microprocessor 310 or may beseparate from it (not illustrated). In addition, different types ofprocessing devices, such as microcontrollers or digital signalprocessors, may be used. Microprocessor is meant to be interpretedwithin this document as any data processing component. Some furtherexamples of processing devices may include field programmable gatearrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices, complex programmable logicdevices (CPLDs) and the like.

Note that the system described above includes the use of housings 707,733 for both the electrical device 701 and the optical communicationsdevice 732. However, a housing 707 is not required for either device topractice this invention. For instance, a collection of circuitscomprising an electronic device including a photodetector could beencapsulated within potting material. A second collection of circuitscomprising an optical communications device including a phototransmittercould be encapsulated within potting material. The two devices couldthen be positioned so that the lens of the phototransmitter and the lensof the photodetector were axially aligned.

As illustrated, the optical communication device 732 contains at leastone photodetector 708 disposed within a housing 733. The photodetector708 is situated within the housing 733 so that its lens is near ortouching the interior wall of the housing 733, which is constructed of amaterial that transmits the radiation the photodetector 708 is attunedto with minimal distortion. In addition, the photodetector 708 iselectrically coupled to a receiver circuit 728 which transformselectrical pulses from the photodetector into data which is forwarded tothe notebook computer 738 via the cable 730. Similarly, the opticalcommunication device 732 contains at least one phototransmitter 710disposed within the housing 733 so that its lens is near or touching theinterior wall of the housing 733. The phototransmitter 710 iselectrically coupled to a driver circuit 726, which transforms data fromthe notebook computer 738 into electrical pulses suitable fortransmission by the phototransmitter 710.

As illustrated, in one embodiment the electronic device includes ahousing 707. The housing 707 may include an extension 736 that extendsbetween the phototransmitter 702 and photodetector 706. This extension736 may be opaque in that it does not allow for significant transmissionof radiation between the phototransmitter 702 and photodetector 706.This extension 736 may be used to block stray radiation between thephototransmitter 702 and photodetector 706. Further, in an embodimentwhere there are several photodetectors 706 within the potting material,the extension 736 between each of the several photodetectors 706 wouldlimit or eliminate cross-radiation from phototransmitters 710 of theoptical communication device 732.

During operation a user will position the optical communication device732 relative to the electronic device 701 such that the photodetector706 and phototransmitter 702 of the electronic device 701 opticallyalign with the photodetector 708 and the phototransmitter 710 of theoptical communication device 732. Using software on the notebookcomputer 738, the user will initiate communication with the electronicdevice 701. Data is transmitted from the notebook computer 738 to theoptical communication device 732 using the interface cable 730. Thedriver circuit 726 of the optical communication device transforms datafrom the notebook computer 738 into electrical pulses which are thentransformed into optical pulses by the phototransmitter 710.

As indicated, data may flow in one direction, or in both directions, andthis data could be related to the protocol, i.e., error checkingpackets; or it could be substantive. The data that is transmitted couldbe a firmware update of the electronic device 701. It could also besettings or configuration information, or some other kind ofinformation. Further, the data may include a control or a command.

The optical pulses transmitted by the phototransmitter 710 of theoptical communication device 732 are detected by the photodetector 706of the electronic device 701. The photodetector 706 transforms thereceived optical pulses into electrical pulses which are captured by thereceiver circuit 716. The receiver circuit 716 transforms the electricalpulses into a form understandable by the microprocessor 720, and passesthe resultant data on. The receiver circuit's 716 transformation maytake the form of generating serial data in a particular formatunderstood by the microprocessor 310, such as I2C, or it may take theform of generating parallel byte or word length data in a format usableby the microprocessor 310. Once information is received themicroprocessor may then store the information in persistent storage 742.

Also, data may be transmitted from the electronic device 701 to theoptical communication device 732 in a similar manner as described above.The driver circuit 718 of the intelligent electronic device 701transforms data from the microprocessor 310 into electrical pulses whichare then transformed into optical pulses by the phototransmitter 702.The optical pulses transmitted by the phototransmitter 702 of theelectronic device 701 are detected by the photodetector 708 of theoptical communication device 732. The photodetector 708 transforms thereceived optical pulses into electrical pulses which are captured by thereceiver circuit 728. The receiver circuit 728 transforms the electricalpulses into a form understandable by the notebook computer 738, andpasses the resultant data on.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device of theprevious embodiments may be in the form of a radio interface unit 400 asshown in FIG. 28. This radio interface unit 400 may further communicatewith a faulted circuit indicator or other protective device ormonitoring device for use in an electrical power system. The radiointerface unit 400 may include apertures 404 a-404 d wherephotodetectors or phototransmitters are positioned in the housing 406.As discussed above, corresponding photodetectors and phototransmittersof an optical communication device may be positioned in relation tothese apertures 404 a-404 d in order to commence transmission of datatherebetween and through the semi-opaque material contained within thehousing 406. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 29, an opticalcommunication device 732 is shown to be positioned in relation to thehousing 406 of the radio interface unit 400 such that it aligns with theapertures in the previous figure. Additionally, latching mechanisms 480a and 480 b are shown which provide proper positioning and securing ofthe optical communication device 732 to the radio interface unit 400.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the electronic device ofthe previous embodiments may be in the form of a radio interface unit400 as shown in FIG. 30. This radio interface unit 400 may furthercommunicate with a faulted circuit indicator or other protective deviceor monitoring device for use in an electrical power system. The radiointerface unit 400 may include apertures 504 a-504 d wherephotodetectors or phototransmitters are positioned in the housing 506.According to this embodiment, the apertures 504 a-504 d are formed inthe potting material 684. As discussed above, correspondingphotodetectors and phototransmitters 504 e-504 h (of FIG. 32) of anoptical communication device 732 may be positioned in relation to theseapertures 504 a-504 d in order to commence transmission of datatherebetween and through the semi-opaque material contained within thehousing 406. For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32, an opticalcommunication device 732 is shown to be positioned in relation to thehousing 406 of the radio interface unit 400 such that it aligns with theapertures in the previous figure. Additionally, an alignment and/orsecuring mechanism 680, 682 is shown which provides proper positioningand/or securing of the optical communication device 732 to the radiointerface unit 400. The alignment and/or securing mechanism 680, 682illustrated is a pressure-fit aperture 680 wherein the opticalcommunication device 732 includes an extended portion 682 that isapproximately the same size as, and fits firmly into the pressure-fitaperture 680, aligning the apertures and holding the opticalcommunication device 732 in place.

The foregoing description of the invention has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Thedescription was selected to best explain the principles of the inventionand practical application of these principles to enable others skilledin the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments andvarious modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.It is intended that the scope of the invention not be limited by thespecification, but be defined by the claims set forth below.

1. A system for communicating information between a detection device anda wireless device, comprising: a detection device, said detection deviceadapted to monitor a condition related to a power system, acommunication member coupled to the detection device, a radio interfaceunit in communication with said communication member, and a wirelessdevice in radio communication with said radio interface unit, such thatsaid detection device communicates information between the wirelessdevice via the radio interface unit.
 2. The system of claim 1, whereinthe detection device is a power system device.
 3. The system of claim 2,wherein the power system device is a faulted circuit indicator.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the communication member is substantiallyself-contained.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein the radio interfaceunit is substantially self-contained.
 6. The system of claim 1, whereinthe communication member communicates power system information to theradio interface unit without a mechanical connection therebetween. 7.The system of claim 1, wherein the communication member communicatespower system information to the radio interface unit without anelectrical connection therebetween.
 8. The system of claim 1, whereinthe detection device is located in an underground location.
 9. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the detection device is located in proximityto an overhead power line.
 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the radiointerface unit is generally submergible in water.
 11. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the radio interface unit is generally constructed toendure harsh conditions.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the radiointerface unit is adapted to communicate information regarding thedetection device between the detection device and the wireless device.13. The system of claim 12, wherein the detection device includes oneselected from the list consisting of devices for detecting: CO, CO₂,SO_(x), NO_(x), Ammonia, Arsine, Bromine, Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide,volatile organic compounds, Diborane, Ethylene Oxide, Fluorine,Formaldehyde, Germane, Hydrogen, Hydrogen Chloride, Hydrogen Cyanide,Hydrogen Fluoride, Hydrogen Selenide, Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, Ozone,Methane, Phosgene, Phosphine, Silane, pressure, temperature,electromagnetic radiation, atomic radiation, smoke, particulate matter,pH, turbidity, Br⁻, Ca²⁺, Cl⁻, CN⁻, Cu²⁺, F⁻, I⁻, K⁺, Na⁺, NH⁴⁺, NO³⁻,Pb²⁺, S⁻(AG⁺), conductivity, over voltage, under voltage, over current,under current, frequency, water, high voltage electric field, specificgravity, light, and sound.
 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the radiointerface unit is adapted to communicate information regarding the radiointerface unit to the wireless device.
 15. The system of claim 1,wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to receive information fromthe wireless device and transmit the information received from thewireless device to the detection device.
 16. The system of claim 1,wherein the radio interface unit is adapted to communicate informationregarding the portion of the power system between the detection deviceand the wireless device.
 17. The system of claim 1, wherein the radiointerface unit is adapted to communicate to the wireless deviceinformation regarding a connection for the communication member and theradio interface unit.
 18. A method of preserving battery life in a radiointerface unit, said radio interface unit in communication with adetection device and having a radio for communicating with a portableterminal by transmitting and receiving radio frequency signalstherebetween, said method comprising the steps of: keeping the radio ofthe radio interface unit in a slow sleep mode most of the time;periodically waking the radio of the radio interface unit up todetermine if a request command is received from the portable terminal;setting the radio of the radio interface unit to a faster sleep mode ifthe detection device senses a select condition; and waking the radio ofthe radio interface unit up more frequently to determine if a requestcommand is received from the portable terminal when the radio is set inthe faster sleep mode.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the detectiondevice is a faulted circuit indicator.
 20. The method of claim 18,wherein the select condition is a fault condition.
 21. A method of claim18, said method comprising the additional step of: transmitting from theradio of the radio interface unit only upon receipt of a request commandfrom the portable terminal.
 22. A method of claim 18, said methodcomprising the additional step of: returning the radio of the radiointerface unit to the slow sleep mode upon early termination of anycommunication from the portable terminal.
 23. A method of claim 18, saidmethod comprising the additional step of: returning the radio of theradio interface unit to the slow sleep mode at a predetermined timeafter the last communication from the portable terminal.
 24. A method ofclaim 18, said method comprising the additional step of: using multiplefrequencies to communicate between the radio interface unit and theportable terminal.
 25. A method of claim 18, said method comprising theadditional step of: selecting the communication protocol for the radiointerface unit and the portable terminal from the group consisting ofFSK, PSK, CDMA and spread spectrum.
 26. A method of communicatingbetween a radio interface unit and a portable terminal, said radiointerface unit having a radio for communicating with the portableterminal by transmitting and receiving radio frequency signalstherebetween, said method comprising the steps of: providing a compactcommunication protocol for communications between the radio interfaceunit and the portable terminal; providing an extended communicationprotocol for communications between the radio interface unit and theportable terminal; and using the compact communications protocol as thedefault communications mode.
 27. The method of claim 26, said methodcomprising the additional step of: using the compact communicationsprotocol for interrogating the status of the radio interface unit. 28.The method of claim 26, said method comprising the additional step of:changing to the extended communications protocol when the radiointerface unit receives a request command from the portable terminal.29. The method of claim 26, said method comprising the additional stepof: using the extended communications protocol for updatingmicroprocessor parameters in the radio interface unit.
 30. The method ofclaim 26, said method comprising the additional step of: using theextended communications protocol for performing diagnostic checks. 31.The method of claim 28, said method comprising the additional step of:resetting the communication protocol to the compact communicationprotocol at a predetermined time after the last communication from theportable terminal in the extended communication protocol.
 32. The methodof claim 28, said method comprising the additional step of: resettingthe communication protocol to the compact communication protocol uponearly termination of any communication from the portable terminal in theextended communication protocol.
 33. The method of claim 26, said methodcomprising the additional step of: using multiple frequencies tocommunicate between the radio interface unit and the portable terminal.34. The method of claim 26, said method comprising the additional stepof: selecting the communication protocol for the radio interface unitand the portable terminal from the group consisting of FSK, PSK, CODMAand spread spectrum.